Angry Torquay bus users are planning a high-profile protest when Torbay Council meets to discuss local services. They say the council is losing touch with the people who rely on the vital bus routes.

"They don't think about older people. They don't think about buses," said angry campaigner Val Baker. "It's all about profit these days, and people forget how vital the buses can be.

"The council can spend our money on palm trees and hot air balloons - what about our buses?"

Torbay MP Kevin Foster has joined a group of 30 residents battling to get the 65 bus route reinstated after it was axed in April. The route covered some of the hilliest areas of the town including Hele, Babbacombe and Ellacombe.

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Val said: "Since the bus was axed, many of the most vulnerable and elderly members of the community have been left cut off and isolated. One lady I spoke to who is 90 says she will have to start driving again.

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"Another lady in Higher Ellacombe is thinking of moving house.

"People say they feel cut off from the outside world now and their only alternative is to use a taxi, which they can ill afford."

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The nationwide Campaign for Better Transport is urging Torbay Council to rethink its transport plan and consult with the community. They say the misery of the bus cuts is an all-too-common story all over the country.

Val Baker added: "I know Torbay Council is in the difficult position of making ends meet and the Government has cut its funding for concessionary bus passes again this year. But let's hope the council can help us, or our problems will continue."